Raising Awareness for Diabetes Month

What is diabetes?

Diabetes is a condition where the body cannot properly control the amount of sugar in the blood. When blood sugar levels become too high or too low, it can cause tiredness, dizziness, and, over time, may lead to other health complications.

There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 occurs when the body is unable to produce insulin, meaning people need to manage their blood sugar levels with regular insulin injections. Type 2 diabetes is more common and happens when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. This type can often be managed through diet, medication or lifestyle changes.

Because every person’s experience of diabetes is unique, we take a personalised approach to dining, tailoring meals to meet each resident’s individual needs and preferences.

A balanced approach to nutrition

For many people living with diabetes, a balanced and consistent diet plays a key role in maintaining their wellbeing. However, in a senior living environment, dietary needs can vary greatly and flexibility is often essential.

That’s why our catering teams work closely with care teams and dietitians to ensure that each resident’s preferences and health requirements are met. From the ingredients we select to the portion sizes we serve, we focus on creating meals that are both nutritious and full of flavour.

How we support residents with diabetes

Our team follows a thoughtful, practical approach to support residents living with diabetes, ensuring every meal is safe and enjoyable. At White Oaks, we:

• Provide regular meals and snacks to help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
• Include a source of carbohydrate such as bread, potatoes, rice, pasta or cereal in each meal.
• Serve sugar-free or low-sugar drinks, always checking labels carefully.
• Use artificial sweeteners such as Splenda or Canderel to add variety without added sugar.
• Offer lower sugar dessert options so residents can still enjoy something sweet.

We also avoid ‘diabetic products’ such as special jams, biscuits or chocolates.. Instead, we focus on fresh ingredients and simple adaptations that make meals both wholesome and familiar.

Delicious diabetes-friendly desserts

Managing blood sugar levels shouldn’t mean missing out on pudding. Our teams love creating lower-sugar versions of classic desserts that satisfy any sweet tooth while helping to keep blood glucose levels in check.

Some of our residents’ favourites include:

• Fresh, stewed or tinned fruit served in natural juice
• Creamy milk puddings made with sweetener
• Natural and low sugar fruit yoghurts
• Small portions of vanilla ice cream

Whenever we serve classics like Apple Pie or Bread and Butter Pudding, we make sure there’s a lower-sugar option too, so no one misses out. These thoughtful touches help residents feel included and cared for at every mealtime.

Thoughtful dining

To us, food is not only about nutrition. It is about comfort, community and care. We are committed to providing meals that are both healthy and heartfelt, ensuring that every resident, including those living with diabetes, looks forward to mealtimes.